Strategic Planning Update

I am writing today to inform you about a process that I am spearheading to move our school forward on a recommendation from our 2015 strategic planning effort: Objective 3.4: Convene a task force to research dual immersion models and investigate the feasibility of moving to a one-program model.

As you probably know, this is not a new discussion for ICS. As a school community, we have debated this topic for years, and there are many important perspectives that need to be thoughtfully considered. Last week, CEO Tom and I met with Sandy Strunk and Diana Diehl, consultants who will be supporting us as we engage in this important discussion. Our first task is to form a diverse cross-functional team of board members, parents, and staff so that we can bring as many perspectives to the discussion as possible. This group will review and recommend refinements to our school vision, mission, and value statements, examine the research related to dual immersion models, analyze ICS applicant survey data, and make a recommendation to the board about the feasibility of moving to a one-program model.

If Phase 1 of the project leads to a recommendation to move forward with a one-program model, Phase 2 will help us to determine the “best-fit model” for our school and address a viable implementation strategy. With that said, it is important to note that we are in the beginning stages of this investigation and no changes will be made during the 2017-18 school year. Moreover, we are committed to providing program continuity for each of our students so you can feel confident that your child will not be negatively impacted by any future changes in our program structure.

The task force will meet once a month and will communicate regularly with all community members. There will also be opportunities for all community members to offer input as we work through this process. Thank you for your commitment to ICS and your willingness to help us provide the best education possible for each and every student. I look forward to talking with you more as this project evolves.